Mass Protest in Imphal on International Human Rights Day Demands Repeal of AFSPA

Guwahati:In a powerful display of unity, thousands gathered at THAU Ground in Imphal today to protest the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) on International Human Rights Day. The mass demonstration, organized by several influential civil society organizations (CSOs) such as the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO), Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur (POIREI LEIMAROL), Manipuri Students’ Federation (MSF), Centre for Human Rights (COHR), and All Manipur Women Voluntary Association (AMAWOVA), saw diverse groups, including students and community members, voicing their anger over what they described as a “draconian” law that violates basic human rights.Protesters carried banners and placards demanding the full repeal of AFSPA from Manipur and other northeastern states, claiming it enables impunity and promotes human rights violations in the region. Slogans like “Repeal AFSPA,” “Self-determination is our right,” and “Stop killing innocent people by Kuki terrorists” echoed through the crowd.The protest comes in the wake of the Indian government reimposing AFSPA in several areas of Manipur in November, citing ongoing ethnic violence as the reason for the decision. The reimposition affects key regions, including Jiribam, Sekmai, Lamsang, and Moirang, areas that have seen severe unrest in recent months.AFSPA, which grants extraordinary powers to security forces in “disturbed areas,” has been a controversial and divisive issue in Manipur for years. Public outcry against the law has grown louder, with civil society groups and activists calling for a shift toward peaceful governance that respects human rights.As the protest intensified, speakers emphasized the importance of justice and dignity for the people of Manipur, underlining their commitment to opposing AFSPA and advocating for a rights-based approach to governance in the state.